In June, it was first reported that Microsoft would replace the Messenger app in Windows 8.1 with the Skype app. While Microsoft did not confirm that news at the time, today it has officially revealed that Skype will be included in all Windows 8.1 PCs out of the box.

In a blog post, Microsoft said:

Over 300 million people today use Skype for the most personal connections in their lives, sharing those everyday moments big and small across messaging, audio and video calling. With Windows 8.1, Skype is included right from (the) Start, making your new Windows device the best way to stay close andconnected.

The blog post will apparently be the first in a series that will look over the over 20 new and improved appsand services that will be included with Windows 8.1 when it officially launches on October 18th. The blog also includes an infographic, shown below, that quickly goes over all of the in-house apps that will ship with all Windows 8.1 PCs.

Among the apps mentioned in the infographic are the two new Bing apps, Food & Drink and Health & Fitness that are available for the public preview of Windows 8.1. It also shows the new Alarms, Calculator, Sound Recorder and Scan apps but with no descriptions.